From the Guidelines
For a flash burn to the face, immediately cool the affected area with cool running water for 10-20 minutes to reduce pain and limit tissue damage, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1. This approach is supported by the latest evidence, which suggests that cooling of burns with running water is an established and beneficial intervention with little risk of harm 1. The following steps can be taken to manage the burn:
- Cool the burn with cool running water for 10-20 minutes to reduce pain and limit tissue damage
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6 hours) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours) to manage pain, as it is reasonable to give over-the-counter pain medications for pain from thermal burns 1
- Apply a water-based moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin, but avoid petroleum-based products which can trap heat
- Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage if possible, changing it daily
- Keep the face clean by gently washing with mild soap and water
- Protect the healing skin from sun exposure using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) or by wearing a wide-brimmed hat It is also important to seek immediate medical attention if the burn is severe, involves the eyes, or if there are signs of infection, as burns associated with or involving the face should be evaluated by a healthcare provider 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Flash Burn to the Face
- The treatment for a flash burn to the face involves several steps, including first aid and medical interventions.
- First aid for thermal burns, such as flash burns, includes cooling the burn with running water for a certain duration, although the ideal duration is still a topic of debate 2, 3.
- A systematic review found that cooling thermal burns with running water for 20 minutes or more did not show a significant benefit compared to cooling for less than 20 minutes in terms of burn size, depth, and complications 2.
- However, another systematic review and meta-analysis found that 20 minutes of cool running water within three hours of thermal burn injury significantly decreased the odds of patients requiring skin grafting and surgical intervention for wound management 3.
Antibiotic Treatment
- Infection is a major concern in burn care, and antibiotic treatment is crucial in preventing and managing infections 4, 5, 6.
- Topical antimicrobial agents, such as silver sulfadiazine and bacitracin, have been shown to be effective against bacterial isolates from burn wounds 4.
- Systemic antibiotic prophylaxis may be useful in patients with severe burns, but its benefit in the majority of burn patients is not evident 5.
- The development of antibiotic resistance is a concern, and the use of antibiotics should be judicious and guided by evidence-based guidelines 5, 6.
Wound Care
- Proper wound care is essential in promoting healing and preventing infection in flash burns 4, 5.
- Topical antimicrobial agents and dressings can help prevent infection and promote a moist environment conducive to healing 4.
- Regular monitoring and dressing changes are crucial in managing burn wounds and preventing complications 5.